J.B.'s Bolt Chart on Vishooter

[Mike D]

J.B. - Your chart is a constant "goto" for me and, I'm sure, many others.

Just curious as to how long it actually took you to come up with that info? Is there a planned updated version? Can there be?

And my goodness, how many rifles?

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[John Beard]

I'm pleased to hear that you find my charts useful.

I believe that I first started collecting data about 1995. Ironically, it was for someone else - my good friend, C.S. Ferris. But, his interest in the data waned. I then started volunteering at the CMP in 1998 and fell into a wealth of data. Lots of steel lot codes, but very few serial numbers to pin them down. Original rifles are scarce at the CMP. But, I gradually found examples of original or semi-original rifles which helped me pin down most of the codes. I also discovered that Springfield made design changes in the bolt, which further helped me pin down their periods of manufacture.

Since my last update, the codes have been very stable. I think I have accumulated a few additional WWII codes. And I've also concluded that one or two codes, such as "SS", were likely mis-strikes or double-strikes. But I don't have an update planned in the near future.

I also have an extensive Remington bolt data base which I would like to publish. But, Remington bolts are not so easily characterized because of all the design changes. And there is very little consistency in markings. A Remington bolt data base would only be useful with a cadre of photographs showing all the design and marking changes. And I have limited photo capability at the present time.

And I also have Smith-Corona bolt data. Fortunately, Smith-Corona bolts are very straighforward with very few design and marking changes.

Hope this helps. Thanks for your interest and inquiry! And Happy Holidays!

J.B.

[Rick the Librarian]

I agree with Mike - a continual "go to" for me. It was extremely generous to make this research available online!

[Badger]

Yes, thanks very much John ...

For those that don't realize it, Vi Shooter's web pages with extensive information on M1903 & Variants, including John's reference data, can be accessed directly without leaving the M1903/1903A3/A4 Springfield Rifle forums ...

Check the sticky threads at the top of the forum ...

Vi Shooter's Web Pages (click here)

Regards,
Doug

[Allen Humphrey]

It is GREAT data, and I hope it is backed up in several locations because I don't know where we would go to find that much info in one place if it was lost! Thanks for sharing it.

[Chuckindenver]

i use it all the time, to help guys wanting the correct bolt for projects ect...
at one time i had a bunch of A4 bolt info, pictures ect, i belive Jgaynor or Mike has all that info, as i got busy with work, i didnt have the time to keep the charts and rifle info.
maybe JB has that info as well now..
admited, i dont do the same sort of collecting, and searching as i used to,,,just dont have the time anymore.